Many universities offer Math Science and Engineering graduate degrees, which help students prepare for potential careers in more senior positions such as management and advanced research. Offered as graduate certificates, Masters and Doctorate Degrees, the type of program you are interested in can help you find the best graduate school for your academic goals, whether these are in the life sciences, computational mathematics, architecture, biotechnology, or the vast field of engineering. With graduate schools in many cities, states and even countries, there are plenty of opportunities to find a math science and engineering graduate degree that will take you to the next level personally and professionally.

Math Science and Engineering Graduate Degree Basics

Sometimes referred to as STEM degrees, Math Science and Engineering Graduate Degrees refer to programs where students use their knowledge in science, technology, engineering or math to address real-world issues. From the Epidemiologist who investigates patterns and causes of infectious diseases[i], to Astronautical Engineers who work with the science and technology of spacecraft[ii] and the Statistician who develops marketing strategies[iii] STEM fields are numerous.

DID YOU KNOW?

“Like occupations in other disciplines, STEM occupations that require more education usually pay more than those that need less. For example, biochemists and biophysicists, who often have a Ph.D., had median earnings of $71,000 in 2005; biological technicians, who often have an associate degree or less education, earned a median of $34,270”.[iv]

Types of Math Science and Engineering Graduate Programs

Before you initiate a search for STEM graduate schools, you might narrow your lens. Starting with what type of Math Science and Engineering graduate program is helpful.

Types of Math Science Engineering Graduate Degrees

Taking your search one step further, you can refine your parameters by selecting a Math Science Engineering graduate degree level: graduate certificate, masters, doctorate (PhD and professional Doctoral degrees). If you are thinking ahead while early in your education path, get some guidance here. Some graduate schools have combination Bachelor-Master’s programs and some PhD programs accept students from Bachelor’s programs.

Masters in Math Science and Engineering Degrees

Master’s degrees in math, in science, and in engineering typically take an additional year or two beyond the Bachelor’s degree. With more engineers assuming managerial responsibilities, the number of graduate schools with Master’s degree programs that focus on the application of engineering principles to industry rather than on basic research is increasing.[v] In Math and Science fields as well, earning a Master’s degree may lead to other job prospects[vi] or higher wages.[vii]

Doctorate in Math Science and Engineering Degrees

Doctorate degrees in math, in science, and in engineering may take an additional three to four years after obtaining an undergraduate degree. If you are interested in research and academic jobs, these typically require a PhD in your field. [viii]

What Should I Look for in a Graduate School?

Assuming you have walked through the programs and degree levels, know what you want, finding a university or college with a Math Science and Engineering Graduate degree is the next step. Ideally you need to find a campus that offers what you need, it’s almost that simple. What other criteria could you use to find a STEM graduate school?

Location: If you have a few choices, consider whether you prefer a campus program in a large city or a smaller suburb.

Curriculum: Look into a program that will teach you what you want to know in a concrete way. Graduate school is your opportunity to take the theory and basics from your Bachelor’s degree and learn how to apply this to problem-solving. You may want a custom curriculum so that you can refine an area of expertise. Think: learning opportunity an possible career outcomes.

Campus life: Personal preference, but you will be there often so schedule a campus visit to get a feel for it and the distance to your classes. Get a firsthand assessment of the college culture.

Research: If you are interested in researching a specific topic, look for a graduate school where they have a good professional society (conferences, meetings, associations).

Advisor: If you are looking into a doctorate degree, you may want to scope out a college with an advisor who will challenge and support you in the way you need it.

Facilities: If you need state of the art science laboratories or an unbeatable library, look for what you need in a school, since you will have access to its facilities.

Tuition, financial aid, student services: The nuts and bolts may play a role in your choice of graduate school, so start a spreadsheet to record all the details.

Accreditation: A university may be accredited regionally and nationally. Also look for program-specific accreditation (ABET for Engineering Graduate Programs for example).

Take the Next Step

You are well on your way to finding Math Science and Engineering graduate degrees to choose from. Our directory of sponsored program listings awaits. Some of these options could include Master of Science in Engineering Management, Master of Architecture, Neuroscience Graduate Program, Master of Science in Analytics, Master of Science in Mathematics, Master of Science in Physiology, PhD in Electrical Engineering. We also suggest you make use of the ‘visit school site’ and ‘request information’. It’s easy to do and helps you fill in your spreadsheet to then make a well-educated decision.

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